Monday, October 31, 2011

Today, I got this e-mail from aviation artist Berry Munden, United States:

Hey, Fritz the Fox here. I've been trying to update my line of A-10 prints to include some older hogs, and I'm struggling to find photos. I'm very much in need of good detail shots of hog noses and tails from the 81st TFW (especially the 78th, 91st,92nd and 509th TFS) and the 138th NY ANG (the Boys from Syracuse...I could really use a good nacelle photo), the 333rd TFS, the 45th TFS, the 176 TFS, and just about anything else from the Euro-painted years. I've found that photos of ladder door art often include the name placard detail that is otherwise hard for me to find. Do you have photos in your archives that might be useful, or know of any good sources I may have overlooked? (I've already combed Flickr, airliners.net, the Warthog Territory forums and other usual suspects.) Contact me via boomandzoomgraphics.com if you have any good pix and suggestions. Thanks!

And keep up the good work! Your site has always been a wonderful resource for me.

10/31/2011 - SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany – Capt. James Schmidt, 81st Fighter Squadron A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot, explains the rotation of the gun on an A-10 to members of Obere Kyll Area Administration during a tour here Oct. 28. The group is the administrative body for 14 communities within the Juenkerath area. The event included a tour of base housing, the 726th Air Mobility Squadron, an aircraft hanger, and the fire department. Members of the area administration learned more about the base, aircraft, and 52nd Fighter Wing mission helping develop partnership with the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher Toon)Hi-res

More than 50,000 service members and Korean spectators looked toward the sky and witnessed aerial stunts, jumps and performances from across the globe, at Air Power Day 2011 here, Oct. 29 and 30. A-10's perform a high speed fly by, wing tip to wing tip formation. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Staff Sgt. Daylena Gonzalez)Hi-res

Note: Pictured (from top) are A-10Cs 685, 183 and 283, all three from the 25th Fighter Squadron.

by Airman 1st Class Michael Battles51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

10/30/2011 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- More than 50,000 visitors looked toward the sky and witnessed aerial acts from across the globe at the 2011 Air Power Day at Osan Air Base Oct. 29 and 30.

Headlining Air Power Day was the Republic of Korea Air Force's official aerial demonstration team the Black Eagles. Their overwhelming force and precise aerobatic formations brought roaring cheers from the crowd as well as some tears of joy from a few spectators at the event.

The audience also witnessed performances by Air Combat Command's A-10 Thunderbolt II demonstration team, ROKAF's T-50 Golden Eagles and a fly-over by the Air Force's U-2 reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft.

"I've been to this event four times," said Taegyu Kim, APD spectator. "I love airplanes, so I thank the Air Force for having this event; it's a great way for Koreans to build relationships with American military."

Spectators not only got a chance to get an up close look at Osan's war fighting capabilities such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10, but many Air Force airframes including the C-17 Globemaster III, C-130 Hercules and KC-135 Stratotanker.

The demonstration of air power also included static displays of ROKAF's mobility capabilities like the F-5E Tiger II and F-4 Phantom II.

Taking a break from the skies on-lookers were treated to ground demonstrations by the 51st Security Forces dog handlers, Combat Search and Rescue, as well as Osan's honor guard.

"From the months of planning to setting up the air show to the final FOD walk on Monday morning, members of Team Osan came together to give us a memorable weekend," said Col. Patrick McKenzie, 51st Fighter Wing commander. "This weekend has given Team Osan a chance to build partnerships not only with our Republic of Korea Air Force counterparts, but the Korean community as a whole."

With the touchdown of the A-10 Oct. 30, which was the final aerial demonstration for the day the sound of the ROKAF band filled the air as the final performance for the two-day event.

"This was a great event,' said Staff Sgt. Robert Drew, 51st SFS APD augmentee. "This weekend we truly got to show Korea air power at its best."

According to Warthog News contributor André Inacio from Portugal, the last two 23rd Fighter Group A-10Cs on their way back home from Afghanistan arrived at Lajes Field, Azores, for stopover on October 29, 2011. They touched down for stopover as Trend45 flight about 14:55pm (local time). The escorting tanker didn't land at Lajes and returned to Moron or another base. André had the opportunity to take the following pictures:

Note: Pictured should be A-10C 80-0172 (according to the serial number on the ejection seat). Click for the hi-res shot to get a closer look on Capt. Samuel Chipman's very cool flight suite patch.

by Airman 1st Class Jarrod Grammel23rd Wing Public Affairs

10/28/2011 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- At every hour of the day or night, rain or shine, Moody's A-10C Thunderbolt II maintainers work on everything from loose screws to structural cracks. Working 12-hour shifts and weekends are nothing new for Moody maintainers; keeping the Flying Tigers and rescue squadrons at maximum operational capacity is no easy task.

Despite the challenges of working maintenance at Moody, maintainers take pride in their work and complete the mission.

"I am proud to be a part of the 23rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron," said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Campbell, 75th Aircraft Maintenance Unit aircraft electrical and environmental craftsman. "I have always wanted to work on A-10s and Moody was absolutely my top choice. I'm just proud to be a part of such a legendary unit.

"You get a lot of pride from launching and recovering aircraft," he added. "It's hard work, but you gain pride and camaraderie with fellow maintainers."

The A-10 was the first U.S. Air Force aircraft designed solely to provide close air support and first arrived at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. in 1975. One of the challenges faced by Moody maintainers is maintaining older A-10s.

"One of the challenges we face with older aircraft is the changes in technology," said Senior Master Sgt. Ronald Clark, 23rd Maintenance Group avionics manager. "Back when these aircraft came out everything was analog but now it's digital. It can be a struggle integrating the new parts and evolving the aircraft."

Despite the challenges, the 75th AMU was awarded the Meritorious Unit Award while deployed to Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan, as the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing. From Sept. 2010 to March 2011 they flew a total of 11,486.5 combat hours.

"They are good maintainers and leaders, from the senior NCOs to the Airmen," said Clark. "That unit exudes pride. They know what they need to do and how to do it."

Moody is home to the Flying Tigers, the World War II volunteer group commanded by Lt. Gen. Claire Lee Chennault which became known for their P-40 Warhawks with shark's teeth painted on the nose. Today they fly A-10s and can be seen conducting missions worldwide with the same shark-teeth nose art.

"I'm responsible for all the electronics that help pilots get accurate bombs on target," said Senior Airman Jonathan Zurek, 75th AMU avionics technician. "The best part is taking pride in your own maintenance. Anyone can replace a part, but putting a higher level of craftsmanship in your work is something to be proud of."

However, maintaining the aircraft of the Flying Tigers has its challenges.

"We are very busy, and undermanned so there are a lot of hours spent working away from your family," said Zurek. "To finish the job, we sort our priorities at the start of the day to determine what needs to be done first."

Whether it's the P-40s of the WWII Flying Tigers or the A-10s of today's warriors, dedicated and skilled maintainers are needed to keep these aircraft in flying condition.

10/28/2011 - A 47th Fighter Group [917th Fighter Group] A-10 Thunderbolt II, piloted by U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Mitch Hanson, returns from a sortie at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 26, 2011. Hanson is the 47th Fighter Squadron director of operations and this marked his last flight for the squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Greg Steele)Hi-res

10/28/2011 - U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Mitch Hanson, 47th Fighter Squadron director of operations, is sprayed down after returning from a sortie at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 26, 2011. Hanson flies the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and this mission marked his last flight with the squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Greg Steele)Hi-res

Friday, October 28, 2011

Latest "blog" post on The Beacon Live - The Official Online Newsletter of the Idaho Air Guard:

Posted by Gary A. Daniel on October 27, 2011 at 2:39pm

The Air Combat Command Inspector General (IG) team recognized forty four 124th Fighter Wing airmen as superior performers and additionally recognized seven wing sections as superior performance teams during the Wing’s Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI). The IG team rated five major categories while assessing the wing's ability to convert to wartime status, deploy forces and aircraft to forward operating locations, and to maintain combat readiness in the deployed location. The IG rated the wing's command and control functions as outstanding, deployment processing as excellent, employment readiness as marginal, information operations as satisfactory, and force protection as excellent. The wing's overall ORI grade was marginal.

The IG also recognized seven work teams as superior performers. From the 124 Mission Support Group, the Deployment Control Center team, the Passenger Manifest team, and the Individual Protective Equipment Processing team, from the 124… Continue

Sorry, but I can't post the full story because access to The Beacon Live is still restricted for Wing members only. But I took screenshots of the latest related photos:

Senior Airman Patricia Westcott, a crew chief with the 124th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II as it arrives at a simulated deployed base during an Operational Readiness Exercise. (U.S. Air Force photo by Robert Barney)

Maj. Justin Keskey, an A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot, leaves his plane after landing at a simulated deployed base during an Operational Readiness Inspection with the 124th Fighter Wing. (U.S. Air Force photo by Robert Barney)

Note: ALQ-184(V)-1(long) ECM pod on station 1.

A weapons load team with the 124th Maintenance Squadron loads simulated munitions onto an A-10C Thunderbolt II during an Operational Readiness Inspection with the 124th Fighter Wing. (U.S. Air Force photo by Robert Barney)

Note: Pictured in this very interesting flight line shot are some blue-painted 500lb GBU-38 training JDAMs.

Note: Pictured is A-10C 78-0619 from the 190th Fighter Squadron. ALQ-184(V)-1(long) ECM pod on station 1.

By the way, at least in my eyes as a long-time journalist and also as a public relations guy, this restricted concept of The Beacon Live is simply wrong. Instead of that, 124th Fighter Wing Public Affairs should further update their official public website (including hi-res photo coverage) and also should create a fan page on Facebook, like some other USAF units. Sorry, but I'm tired to make screenshots again and again from The Beacon Live.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Theodore Coiner, 357th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations, poses with Kyle Dupuis in the 357th Fighter Squadron life support room on Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Oct. 21, 2011. Kyle was made an honorary pilot for the Pilot for a Day program. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Timothy D. Moore)Hi-res

by Airman 1st Class Michael Washburn355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

10/28/2011 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Most Americans will never get the opportunity to fly a plane. Even for those in the Air Force, only a small percent are pilots. For 14-year-old Kyle Dupuis, his dream of being a pilot has become a reality as he toured D-M here Oct. 21, as a participant in the Pilot for a Day Program.

Kyle has a condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This means his adrenal gland is always pumping hormones into his body. He tries to regulate it through medication, but one of the side effects is that his bones are aging rapidly because of the treatments. In addition, Kyle also suffers from scoliosis. He has also had corrective surgery on his legs to lengthen his Achilles' tendons and to rebuild his feet and ankles, but after the surgery, has had trouble walking and cannot run.

Kyle is sponsored by the Kids Wish Network which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to granting the wishes of children between the ages of three and 18 who are living with life threatening illnesses. Kyle's only wish was to come to D-M, complete the Pilot for a Day program and visit his Uncle who is stationed at D-M, Staff Sgt. James Brumbaugh, 355th Logistics Readiness Squadron.

The day began by meeting 1st Lt. Matthew Babcock, 355th Training Squadron, at the visitors' center. From there, Lieutenant Babcock escorted them to the 357th Fighter Squadron where Kyle was greeted by Lt. Col. Theodore Coiner, 357th FS assistant director of operations. Because the program is called Pilot for a Day and not Civilian for a Day, Kyle was presented his very own flight suit, complete with a Pilot for a Day patch and one with his name. He was sworn in after reciting the Oath of Office and then proceeded to show his vast knowledge of aircrafts by identifying and talking about the many different pictures that lined the walls.

Throughout his day-long excursion of all things military, Kyle and his family were able to see and experience everything pilots get to use on an daily basis such as pilot helmets, breathing mask, night vision goggles, rockets and munitions that A-10s are loaded with. To get a first person view and feel of a fighter pilot, Kyle had the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of an actual A-10. They also received a military working dog demonstration from security forces and visited the fire department where he saw the Jaws of Life, the station itself and fire trucks. Even all his limitations due to his illness couldn't stop Kyle from conquering the powerful fire hose.

Kyle particularly enjoyed two areas he was introduced to during his day with the Desert Lightning Team.

The first was the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group. AMARG is full of planes and helicopters, both old and new models. During the tour, Kyle was able to see different models of his favorite plane, the F-4 Phantom. Lieutenant Babcock said that during the tour, the tour guide kept trying to stump Kyle with aircraft knowledge, but was unable.

"He's very knowledgeable when it comes to past and present aircrafts," Lieutenant Babcock said. "He was smarter on aircrafts in terms of history and models than anybody I've met. When taking the tour of AMARG, he was able to identify every aircraft we saw, even those that were partially disassembled."

His other favorite was located at the Operations Group building. He was finally able to get some time with the A-10 simulator and try his hand at flying and both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements. His knowledge of military aircrafts was once again put on display as he quickly and accurately named other aircrafts on the simulator.

"This was an incredible experience to be a part of," Lieutenant Babcock said. "Though Kyle may have some physical limitations, he makes up for them with intelligence. He is clearly passionate about planes and successfully mastered the aircraft encyclopedia. To me, this proves that each of us are given gifts to share, even if we are limited in other areas. I definitely learned more from Kyle than he learned from me."

The Pilot for a Day Program originated at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, in 1994 and has since been implemented at several other Air Force bases. Davis-Monthan hosted its first program participant in August 2000, and new program coordinators intend to organize and conduct one D-M visit per month.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

10/24/2011 - Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Staff Sgt. Ricki Welch, a crew chief assigned to the 917th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, have a one-on-one conversation at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 18, 2011. General Schwartz and 15 civic leaders from across the country visited Barksdale AFB Oct 17-21, 2011, as part of the Air Force Chief of Staff Civic Leader Program. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Jeff Walston)Hi-res

Lt. Col. James Travis, commander of the 47th Fighter Squadron, and Staff Sgt. Ricki Welch, a crew chief assigned to the 917th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, brief civic leaders, as well as Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and his wife Suzie, about the A-10 Thunderbolt II during their visit to Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 18, 2011. Fifteen civic leaders from across the country were taking part in an Air Force Chief of Staff Civic Leader Program trip, which visited Barksdale AFB Oct. 17-21, 2011. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jeff Walston)Hi-res

Work continues on "Burn it Down." The painting is on track to be completed by the end of the month. — at Florida Studio. Full size

The primary aircraft in the painting is on his base leg toward the target. The pilot looking down and toward the left is watching (yet to be painted in) the flight leader as he strafes a target, parallel to the river below. When completed you'll see an A-10 that has pulled off the target and flying upwind and a forth Warthog flying on the downwind leg.Full size

The beginning of a new painting, commissioned by the Tiger sharks of the 23rd Fighter Group. The painting will depict 4 A-10's of the 75th Fighter Squadron attacking a target over the Helmand Valley in Afghanistan.Full size

The painting measure 24" x 40." In this photo you can see a few of the many reference photos and notes that I'm using as the piece takes shape. Some of the most important info is the pilot interviews and background data like the landscape pics. Those photos were emailed to me while the unit was still flying combat over Afghanistan.Full size

It's been a busy week in the studio. Packed and shipped off to Washington DC the AUSA painting. Worked on two drawings for new projects, and continued to work on "Burn it Down."Full size

"Burn it Down" is in the home stretch. The airplane is essentially finished. Now all I have left is a bit of detail in the landscape and painting in the Helmand river to the left of the composition.Full size

A 75th Fighter Squadron A-10 maneuvers into position to attack a Taliban force in the Helmand River Valley of Afghanistan. "Burn it Down" was commissioned by the squadron, based at Moody AFB in Georgia. Full size

If you are interested in the new Japanese A-10 book, you can pre-order it on amazon.co.jp now. Check: English order form. Please note: This title, supported and already announced by Warthog News, will be released on Friday this week. By the way: A free review copy has been shipped to me today. And so, in about one or two weeks I can tell you some more details about this book.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Spectators enjoy the 188th Fighter Wing Weapons Element display at the Fort Smith Air show Oct. 1. The show drew a record 255,000 spectators. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Brambl / 188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)Hi-res

Note: Pictured on static display is A-10C 78-0583 from the 184th Fighter Squadron with a desolated "Arkansas" decal on the left vertical stabilizer. Also on display are a GAU-8/A Avenger 30mm cannon - the business end of the "Hog", a GBU-31 JDAM, and a GBU-38 JDAM. The "flip chart" in the foreground shows an Mk. 82 500lb General Purpose Bomb and also some 30mm munitions.

by Airman 1st Class John Hillier188th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

10/3/2011 - FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Editor's note: For more photos of this event, check out the slideshow or find the 188th Fighter Wing on Facebook.

From the constant buzzing of propellers to the scream of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the Air Combat Command F-15 Strike Eagle demo team or the pyrotechnic explosions during a recreation of the attack on Pearl Harbor by Tora! Tora! Tora!, the skies over Fort Smith were filled with the sound of freedom this weekend, and the grounds of the 188th Fighter Wing and Fort Smith Regional Airport were packed with a record 255,000 appreciative fans, who gathered to experience the 2011 Fort Smith Regional Air Show Oct. 1-2.

The highlight of the show was the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Team. The Thunderbirds executed a show of precision aerobatics, then stayed to sign autographs for eager fans.

Making a return trip to Northwest Arkansas with the Thunderbirds was Staff Sgt. Shane Hutchins, crew chief for Thunderbird No. 8. Hutchins is from Alpena, Ark., which is about a 90-minute drive from Fort Smith.

During the Thunderbirds' ground shows they reenlisted 11 members of the 188th and enlisted 50 new recruits into the active-duty Air Force. The Thunderbirds also recognized six individuals in front of a crowd of 130,000 fans before their Sunday aerial demonstration.

"The Thunderbirds always put on an amazing show," said Col. Tom Anderson, 188th Fighter Wing commander. "But it's the community support and the hard work of our Community Council and unit members that make this such a great show and entices the headline acts to make us one of their repeat stops. That's evidenced by the fact that we shattered our previous attendance record. We can't say thank you enough to the community and the performers who helped make this the best show we've ever had here."

During their stay, the Thunderbirds also gave an orientation ride to Fort Smith police officer, Corporal Chris Boyd, as part of their Hometown Hero program. The Thunderbirds also gave meteorologist Drew Michaels of local ABC affiliate KHBS/KHOG 40/29 the ride of his life in an F-16 Falcon.

The Thunderbirds also took the time following their practice Sept. 30 to meet with groups from Make-A-Wish and Bost. The demonstration squadron also made stops at Sparks Regional Medical center, Fort Smith Northside High and Fort Smith Southside High on Sept. 30.

While the Thunderbirds stole the show, they weren't the only act in town. Another act popular with fans was the Indy Boys and their jet-powered school bus, dubbed "School Time."

From the moment driver Paul Stender fired up the engine at the end of the runway, bellowing clouds of smoke, fans of all ages quickly headed to the fence to get a look at the hand-built vehicle. Stender had initially tried to modify a working school bus into a jet-powered vehicle, but it couldn't withstand the high speeds required for his demonstration, he said.

Another popular display was an AC-130H Spectre Gunship from Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., nicknamed "Wicked Wanda." Spectators had a rare opportunity to get inside the craft and learn about how Airmen support ground operations with the craft's 105mm howitzer, and 40mm cannon.

"We don't usually get out to air shows," said Senior Airman Chris Houlihan, a crewmember on the Spectre. "We happened to be here doing integration with the A-10s, so we were able to stay on for the show."

The last show the Wicked Wanda made it to was in 2008, Houlihan said.

After learning about the different armaments carried by the Spectre from Capt. Stephen Liston, plenty of fans tried to talk Airman Houlihan out of the 105mm shell casing he had on display.

"Every kid wants to take that home with him," Airman Houlihan said.

Popular for another reason was the C-130 Hercules from the 189th Airlift Wing, an Arkansas Air National Guard unit based at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. While letting fans explore the craft from cockpit to tail, crewmembers also had a radio playing the Arkansas Razorbacks' football game against Texas A&M. Razorback scores were met with cheers from both the crew and spectators inside the Hercules.

Maj. Michael Schorer flew in a TC-135S trainer for the RC135 reconnaissance plane. Maj. Schorer's TC-135S, based at Offut Air Force Base, Neb., is the only one in existence, he said.

Rotary-wing aircraft made an appearance at the show as well, thanks to Jimmy Propst and his OH-13 Helicopter. Propst recently acquired the former Iowa National Guard helicopter from the city of Walnut Ridge, Ark., where it was used for pest control. Other than a driveshaft housing and some touchup paint, the entire bird is original from the manufacturer, he said.

Propst and his son were glad to beat the show, and the well-worn grass around his helicopter was testament to fans' appreciation.

Besides being an exposition of aircraft and technology, the event also serves as an opportunity for military recruiting. Recruiters from the U.S. Army Navy, Air Force, Marines, and National Guard Bureau were on hand to talk with visitors interested in serving their country.

The largest recruiting display during the show was the Air Force's "Command Center Alpha." It features an interactive look at a variety of jobs within the Air Force.

"The Air Force is only about 3 percent pilots, and we want to get people excited about other jobs in the Air Force," said Brian Baumer, a CCA staff member.

Visitors complete a leadership survey, and are issued a computer tablet that they can use to view videos about different jobs featured throughout the display, he said. The videos are tailored to each person, based on their answers to the survey questions, said Baumer.

The Command Center Alpha display also featured an F-16A Fighting Falcon in a Thunderbirds paint scheme with an open cockpit for fans to climb up and look inside.

Fans were also treated to a pair of F/A-18 Hornets from the U.S. Marines and also two of the 188th's A-10C Thunderbolt II "Warthogs" were on display as well as a C-17 Globemaster III and a host of other civilian aircraft.

Aircraft weren't the only attraction. Several aircraft simulators were present and the youth as well as the adults were able to have personalized dog tags made all while dining on a variety of tasty treats.

Please note: According to this official news release, two of the 184th Fighter Squadron's A-10Cs were on display. And think a little bit about this important quote: "We don't usually get out to air shows," said Senior Airman Chris Houlihan, a crewmember on the Spectre. "We happened to be here doing integration with the A-10s, so we were able to stay on for the show." Hmm ..., are there any new official tactics to combine "Spectres" and "Spookys" with the "Hog"? Indeed, both types of aircraft were favorized during Operation Odyssey Dawn against the Lybian regime of Muammar Gaddafi.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Some days ago, from Lars Kitschke, Germany, I got the kind permission to post his following two shots, taken at Aviano AB, Italy, during Operation Odyssey Dawn. Both pictures were already published on his own website and posted on AIRFIGHTERS.COM.

A-10C 82-0650 takes off for a combat mission on March 30, 2011. (Photo by Lars Kitschke)Full size

A-10C 82-0649 returns from a combat mission on March 31, 2011. (Photo by Lars Kitschke) Full size

Please note: Special thanks to Lars for his O.K. to share both pictures also on my blog.

Update October 25, 2011:

Just after notification about this post, Lars checked his Aviano archives again and provided me the following two additional shots:

A-10C 81-0965 returns from a combat mission on March 31, 2011. (Photo by Lars Kitschke)Full size

A-10C 81-0980 returns from a combat mission on March 31, 2011. (Photo by Lars Kitschke)Full size

Sunday, October 23, 2011

According to an e-mail from Nobuyoshi Noji, Editor, Department of military aviation magazine "J-Wings", Ikaros Publications Ltd, Tokyo, this A-10 book - already announced on Warthog News - will be released as planned on October 28 in Japan. It's in Japanese language only.

The 2011 Gunfighter Skies air show, on September 17, opened Mountain Home Air Force Base for a 2-day open house giving visitors a chance to experience a variety of military aircraft, both on the ground and in the air. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Robert Barney)Hi-res

Note: Pictured in the background is A-10C 78-0633 from the 190th Fighter Squadron.

Mr. Reyes points out a demonstration aircraft to his grandson, Gavin Reyes, as they enjoy the 2011 Gunfighter Skies air show, on September 17, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, during its 2-day open house, giving visitors a chance to experience a variety of military aircraft, both on the ground and in the air. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Robert Barney)Hi-res

Saturday, October 22, 2011

More and more A-10C units are present on the public web with their official websites and additional Facebook fan pages. Instead of that, the 124th Wing (Idaho Air National Guard), Boise, with their 190th Fighter Squadron, choosed to publish an online newsletter called The Beacon Live. Anybody can view and download their archived PDF files. But access to latest news and photos is still restricted to 124th Wing members.

I tryed to get access to the "hot content", but from 124th Wing Public Affairs I got the following reply:

Thomas Gloeckle has sent you a message on Idaho ANG Beacon.

Subject: Access to the Beacon Live

------------Joachim

Thank you for your interest in the Beacon Live. However, due to current Air Force regulations access to our online newspaper is limited to members and former members of the Air National Guard. Should the regulations change we will be more than happy to have you join the Beacon Live audience.

I took the following screenshot of a photo, published in the 127th Wing's base newspaper "Prevailing Wind" (October 2011 public online PDF issue). The quality is not so good, but until now this picture has been not released as hi-res JPG in their website's photo section.

Original "Prevailing Wind" photo caption: Deployed members of the 127th Wing give a shout out to the Detroit Tigers shortly after arriving at Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. This image is taken from a video produced by the Public Affairs Office of the 451st Air Expeditionary Wing. The video, and a similar one featuring a shout out to the Detroit Lions, were posted on 127th Wing's Facebook page and quickly became a local Facebook sensation, being forwarded, shared and liked by hundreds of supporters of the Michigan Air National Guard and of the two sports teams. The Tigers video was shown by the Detroit Tigers on the main scoreboard at Comerica Park during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series — a win by the Tigers. (U.S. Air Force photo by SrA David Carbajal)Full size

Thursday, October 20, 2011

10/20/2011 - U.S. Air Force Maj. Maurice Kent, 47th Fighter Squadron pilot, answers questions about the capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from members of the 98th Bomb Group Veterans Association, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 19, 2011. The 98th held their annual reunion at Barksdale and were given a tour of a 917th Fighter Group A-10. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Greg Steele)Hi-res

Please note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0153, named 'MARRYIN' SAM'.

10/20/2011 - Members of the 98th Bomb Group Veterans Association talk with a 917th Fighter Group pilot about the capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Oct. 19, 2011. The 98th held their annual reunion at Barksdale and was given a flight line tour of the aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Greg Steele)Hi-res

Members of the University of Maryland Air Force ROTC take a tour of the Maryland Air National Guard A-10C Thunderbolt II on October 16, 2011 at Warfield Air National Guard Base, Baltimore, MD. (National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin Hughes)Hi-res

Note: Pictured is A-10C 79-0088 from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland Air National Guard).

By the way: The guy wearing a green flight suite is'nt a pilot. He's Donald Clabaugh, also a ROTC Air Force cadet at the University of Maryland.

Capt. Steven Montalvo, an A-10C pilot with the 175th Wing, talks to a tour group at Warfield Air National Guard Base on October 16, 2011. (National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin Hughes)Hi-res

Background info:The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is a college-based, officer commissioning program, predominantly in the United States. It is designed as a college elective that focuses on leadership development, problem solving, strategic planning, and professional ethics. ROTC on WikipediaU.S. Air Force ROTC

Please note: On October 19, 2011, Ian's father told me via e-mail: Sooner or later I knew you'd get a photo of him. Thanks for posting. At least he can't blame me for his own base PR. Once again thanks for all you do to keep the A-10 community updated, I greatly appreciate it. (By the way: I'm in personal contact with Ian's father since a couple of months)

10/17/2011 - SELFRIDGE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mich. -- Michigan State University men's basketball coach Tom Izzo spent a day at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in early October, as part of his preparation for the upcoming college basketball season.

Michigan State, a frequent visitor to the later rounds of the annual college basketball playoffs known as March Madness, will open the season on Veteran's Day in a game played aboard an U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Carl Vinson.

Izzo routinely uses a special theme to open the basketball season during the team's first practice, which is known as "Midnight Madness," as the team begins practice at midnight at the first minute allowable under collegiate rules. This year, Izzo entered the stadium in a USAF flight suit, riding aboard a miniature F-16 provided by the 339th USAF Recruiting Squadron, which serves the Michigan region. The mini-F-16, about the size of a large go-kart, is often used in parades and other promotional events. Prior to his entry to the stadium at MSU, which was filled with several thousand fans and some of which was broadcast on ESPN and elsewhere, Izzo was featured in a video, suiting up in flight gear and interacting with Selfridge Airmen around an A-10 aircraft.

During his visit to Selfridge, Izzo donned a specially outfitted flight suit, which featured Spartan logos in the place of rank on the suit. After talking with pilots and enlisted personnel at the 107th Fighter Squadron, Izzo talked with maintenance personnel at an aircraft and then sat in an A-10 as he was given an orientation of the capabilities of the A-10.

On Veteran's Day, Nov. 11, Michigan State will open the season against another college basketball powerhouse, the University of North Carolina, in a game played outdoors on the flight deck of the Carl Vinson, which will be tied up at a base in San Diego. President Obama plans to attend the game.

Michigan State University men's basketball coach Tom Izzo stands in front of an A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. Oct. 6, 2011. MSU's basketball team opened the season with a military theme during the annual "Midnight Madness" session, which marked the first time the team could begin official practices for the season. During the Oct. 14 event at MSU, Izzo entered the school's Breslin Center basketball arena decked out in flight gear and riding in a small miniature F-16, provided by the 339th USAF Recruiting Squadron. During his trip to Selfridge, Izzo met with local Airmen and was given an orientation of the capabilities of the A-10, which is flown by the Michigan Air National Guard at Selfridge. (U.S. Air Force photo by John S. Swanson)Hi-res

Under the terms of a $4.9 million reliability centered maintenance task order, Northrop Grumman will identify related risk factors and develop maintenance strategies for selected systems and subsystems.

A $6.1 million aircraft structural integrity program (ASIP) Modernization III task order is a continuation of work completed on ASIP Modernization I and II. These tasks are specifically focused on modernizing the A-10 structural integrity processes and exploiting cross-cutting opportunities with other weapon systems within the Aerospace Sustainment Directorate.

Similarly, a $7.9 million ASIP Legacy III task order is a follow-on task to ASIP Legacy I and II. The ASIP legacy III tasks include investigating and evaluating circumstances concerning A-10 weapon system accidents and incidents, ensuring the operational safety, suitability and effectiveness of the A-10, and maintaining the A-10 engineering database, which includes engineering drawings, processes and other source data.

"Northrop Grumman is leveraging cross-company expertise for A-10 sustainability and support to ensure the safety of our nation's warfighters," said Chris Jones, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman's Integrated Logistics and Modernization Division. "We are also bringing innovation that enables affordability focused on increasing the effectiveness of this platform while reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining high aircraft availability."

"Our team will assess, analyze and recommend cost-effective and practical solutions to reliability, maintainability and supportability issues the A-10 fleet currently faces," said Cindy Green, A-10 TLPS program manager for Northrop Grumman Technical Services. "Our customer and platform intimacy ensures both the quality and success of these tasks.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

An inside look at the Air Force A-10 flyover at Notre Dame Stadium. From Irish Connection on und.com.

Please note:I've got notification about this event already in late September. And so I hope, I can present now an official short version of the original clip. Source The pilots were Lt. Col. Robert "Fr8 Train" Fraine (piloting A-10C 79-0213 with "Blacksnakes" nose art) and 1st Lieutenant Jason Brown. The flyover has been orchestrated by Lt. Col. David "Slide" Rulli.

Question:Anybody who can tell me the date of this event?

By the way:According to Wikipedia, Notre Dame Stadium is the home football stadium for the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team. The stadium is located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana, United States, just north of the city of South Bend.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

The recent combat deployment of A-10Cs from the 81st Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing (USAFE), Spangdahlem AB, Germany, in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn against the Lybian regime is still underexposed. I would like to get some more detailled deployment info, including photos taken by European aircraft spotters.

Involved in OOD were six A-10Cs from the 81st Fighter Squadron. As mentioned on the Dutch Scramble Messagebord, they arrived at Aviano AB, Italy, on Friday, March 25, 2011 (Callsign Attack 01-06). In order of landing were logged: 81-0980, 81-0976, 81-0966, 81-0965, 82-0650 and 82-0649.

By the way:I like the phantastic enthushiasm of European aircraft spotters to document airplane movements. And their exclusive shots are a very hot source also for my blog. Are their any other photographers who would like to share their A-10C OOD pictures?

Dedicated in Love

This blog is dedicated to Marina Naumann, my latest female partner who died after incurable pancreas cancer on June 17, 2010, just only a half year after diagnosis. Marina was the second true wife in my life, and she always supported my long-year enthusiastic research work on the Hog, especially since the beginning of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Rest in peace, Marina.